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I like to think that everyone will one day find a book that makes them feel the way that F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” makes me feel. It’s the kind of book I can meditate on over and over again simply because I think it’s the most beautiful set of words I’ve ever read.

You may or may not have read it before, so, without any big spoilers, it’s about a man named Jay Gatsby and the impact he has on everyone around him; it is a book of love and passion, secrets and lies, but most importantly, hope. However, whilst I do feel everyone should make a point of reading it at some point in their lives, it is not why I’m mentioning it.

I’m using it as my example of the wonder of words. There may be one book, there may be many. Whatever it is, it will be beyond the realms of merely a gripping story, or a lovable underdog: it’s the actual book, words and story that you will love. It will give you food for thought like never before, allowing you to see beauty and love and hope and whatever else may be included in a profoundly new way.

Studies have shown that as little as ten minutes of reading can slow the heart rate and lower the blood pressure, however a book as special as this can go above and beyond. It will not just soothe the body, but also the mind. In my opinion it’s one of the best ways to remove yourself and just be.

By Evie (age 16)
Teen Yoga Tribe